What You Need to Know Before You Start

A Colorado motorcycle license is an endorsement added to your regular driver's license, not a separate document. You cannot get a motorcycle endorsement without already holding a valid Colorado driver's license. The process involves passing a written test on motorcycle rules, a vision screening, and a riding skills test — either through the state's Motorcycle Safety Program or by taking the Motorcycle Operator Skills Test (MOST) at a Colorado Parks and Wildlife office.

You must be at least 16 years old to get a motorcycle endorsement in Colorado. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian's signature on your process. The entire process typically takes a few weeks from start to finish, though the skills test itself can often be scheduled within days if you take the state-approved safety course.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid Colorado driver's license before you can add a motorcycle endorsement.
  • Taking the Colorado Motorcycle Safety Program course satisfies both the written test and riding skills test requirements, and you skip the state's MOST exam.
  • If you do not take the safety course, you must pass the written test at a DMV office and the MOST riding exam at a Colorado Parks and Wildlife location.
  • The safety course costs between $150 and $250, takes two to three days, and provides a motorcycle to use during testing.
  • You pay a $20 endorsement fee when you submit your paperwork to add the motorcycle endorsement to your license.

Route 1: Take the Colorado Motorcycle Safety Program Course

The fastest and most straightforward path is the Colorado Motorcycle Safety Program (CMSP), a state-approved course offered by private instructors throughout Colorado. The course covers motorcycle operation, safety, and Colorado traffic laws specific to motorcycles. You attend classroom instruction and hands-on riding practice over two to three days, usually Friday through Sunday or spread across weeknights. The course provides motorcycles for the riding portion, so you do not need to own or bring your own bike.

When you complete the CMSP course, you receive a certificate of completion. This certificate satisfies both the written test and the riding skills test requirements. You then take this certificate to any Colorado DMV office along with your driver's license, a completed MV-214 form (process for Motorcycle Endorsement), proof of identity, and the $20 endorsement fee. The DMV adds the motorcycle endorsement to your license on the spot — no additional testing required.

To find a CMSP course near you, visit the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website and search for approved instructors by county. Courses fill up, especially in spring and summer, so register at least two weeks ahead. The course fee ranges from $150 to $250 depending on the instructor.

Route 2: Test Without Taking the Safety Course

If you already own a motorcycle or prefer not to take a course, you can test through the state directly. This route requires you to pass two separate exams: the written motorcycle test at a DMV office and the Motorcycle Operator Skills Test (MOST) at a Colorado Parks and Wildlife location.

Start by scheduling the written test at your nearest DMV office. You can book this online through the Colorado DMV website or call ahead. Bring your driver's license, proof of identity, and proof of Colorado residency. The written test covers Colorado motorcycle laws, safe riding practices, and hazard recognition. You must score at least 80 percent to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment.

After passing the written test, schedule the MOST riding exam through Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The MOST is a 20-minute practical test that evaluates your ability to control the motorcycle, brake, accelerate, and navigate turns safely. You must bring your own motorcycle, a valid Colorado driver's license, proof of motorcycle insurance, and a Department of Transportation-approved helmet. The test costs $15. If you fail, you can retake it, though you may need to wait a few days for the next available slot.

What Documents and Fees You Need

Regardless of which route you choose, you will need to submit paperwork to the DMV to finalize your endorsement. Gather these items before you visit a DMV office:

  • Your current Colorado driver's license
  • Proof of identity (passport, military ID, or birth certificate)
  • Proof of Colorado residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days)
  • Completed MV-214 form (process for Motorcycle Endorsement) — available on the Colorado DMV website or at any DMV office
  • Certificate of completion from the CMSP course (if you took the course) or proof of passing both the written and MOST exams (if you tested independently)
  • $20 endorsement fee, paid by cash, check, or card

If you are under 18, include a notarized signature from a parent or guardian on the MV-214 form. Notary services are available at most banks, libraries, and UPS stores for a small fee.

Timeline and What Happens Next

If you take the CMSP course, the entire process can be completed in about three weeks: register for a course (one to two weeks out), attend the course (two to three days), and visit the DMV to add the endorsement (same day or within a few days). If you test independently, allow four to six weeks to schedule the written test, pass it, schedule the MOST, pass that, and then visit the DMV.

Once the DMV processes your paperwork, your motorcycle endorsement is added to your license when ready. You will receive a new physical license card in the mail within one to two weeks. The endorsement appears as an "M" on your license. You can legally ride a motorcycle in Colorado as soon as the endorsement is added, even before the new card arrives.

Colorado recognizes motorcycle endorsements from other states, so if you move to Colorado with an out-of-state endorsement, you can transfer it to your Colorado license without retesting. Bring your out-of-state license to the DMV along with the standard identity and residency documents, and pay the $20 endorsement fee.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not attempt to take the MOST without first passing the written test — the test administrator will turn you away. The written test must come first, whether you take it at the DMV or through the CMSP course.

If you choose to test independently and bring your own motorcycle to the MOST, make sure your bike is street-legal and insured. The test administrator will check that your motorcycle has working brakes, lights, and mirrors. A bike that fails inspection means a failed test and a rescheduled appointment.

Do not register for a CMSP course and then skip it without canceling — most instructors charge a cancellation fee if you do not show up. If your schedule changes, contact the instructor as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride a motorcycle on a learner's permit before I get my endorsement?

No. Colorado does not issue motorcycle learner's permits. You must pass both the written and skills tests before you can legally ride. Some states allow supervised riding on a learner's permit, but Colorado does not.

What if I fail the MOST riding test?

You can retake it. Most Colorado Parks and Wildlife locations allow you to schedule another attempt within a few days. You do not need to retake the written test — only the riding portion. The $15 fee applies each time you test.

Do I need to own a motorcycle before I take the CMSP course?

No. The course provides motorcycles for all students during the hands-on riding portion. This is one of the main advantages of taking the course — you can learn and test on a bike before you buy one.

Can I add a motorcycle endorsement to a learner's permit instead of a full driver's license?

No. You must have a valid, non-learner Colorado driver's license to add a motorcycle endorsement. If you only have a learner's permit, you need to pass your driver's test first.

How long is a motorcycle endorsement valid?

Your motorcycle endorsement is valid for as long as your driver's license is valid. When you renew your driver's license, the endorsement renews automatically — you do not need to retake any tests or pay an additional fee.